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Republicans Optimistic In Oregon Statewide Races

Oregon Secretary of State Kate Brown and Labor Commissioner Brad Avakian are fighting to hold on to their jobs as surging Republicans try to knock off the Democratic incumbents.

The two contests for low-profile offices are the most competitive of four statewide races on the ballot in Tuesday’s election. Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum and Treasurer Ted Wheeler, both Democrats, face underfunded rivals and are expected to be re-elected by wide margins.

Republican Knute Buehler has tried to portray Brown as inept and uninspiring during her first term as secretary of state. Brown has emphasized the work of her auditing division, which has identified millions in potential savings for state government.

Republican state Sen. Bruce Starr is trying to deny a second term for Avakian, a Democrat.